Thursday, September 3

J-balls and the NHL

Watching all the hub-bub surrounding the Hamilton Coyotes aka the
Phoenix Coyotes only brings one question to my mind.

Do I care?

IF (big IF) this were ever to become a reality, would it make a difference to my fanship? I'm not sure that it would. There's a lot to be said about the ability to get a ticket and the storied history of mediocrity in TO, but I'm a leaf fan, good times or now... The idea of driving into Hamilton (spit) to see a game makes me angry. I hate getting around Hamilton (spit) and I'm sure it would be a lot worse with 18,000 people trying to get to the arena at the same time. I'd much rather drive to TO and spend some time in the city before a game than drive to Hamilton and contract some rare lung condition. Personally, it's not an attractive option for me to change allegiance. The Mapleleafs already have my money from merchandise, so why would I want to up and change all that to a new team if it's not ideal.

If I were to cheer for only successful teams, I would change teams every year. There's something special about following a team and hoping to see them succeed. That will bring you through some rough patches and 42 years without a championship (considering the straight odds of winning in a 30 team league, your not too far off pace). So be it, I like to follow the team, learn about the players and watch them grow together.

I think J-Balls should jump ship on the hamilton idea and build something in Waterloo area near the 401. I'd seriously consider changing my cheering habits for something that was more convenient.

What do you think? Do you have one foot already off the bandwagon?